If your child or teen has said they want to die, seems at risk, or you are noticing warning signs, get clear next steps for safety, support, and how to talk with them right now.
Start with how urgent the situation feels so we can help you focus on immediate safety, warning signs, and the most appropriate support for your child or teen.
Hearing a child say they want to die can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to figure it out alone. Suicidal thoughts in children and teens should always be taken seriously. This page is designed for parents looking for urgent help, guidance on warning signs, and support with what to say and do next. If there is immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. In the U.S., you can also call or text 988 for immediate crisis support.
Comments like “I want to die,” “Everyone would be better off without me,” or repeated talk about death, hopelessness, or not wanting to be here can signal serious risk.
Watch for withdrawal, intense sadness, agitation, rage, sudden calm after distress, changes in sleep, or loss of interest in friends, school, or usual activities.
Giving away belongings, searching for ways to die, self-harm, writing goodbye messages, or seeking access to medications, sharp objects, ropes, or firearms are urgent warning signs.
Take what they say seriously. Stay present, speak clearly, and avoid arguing, minimizing, or trying to quickly talk them out of their feelings.
Move or lock up firearms, medications, alcohol, sharp objects, cords, and other items that could be used for self-harm. Supervision matters when risk is high.
If there is immediate danger or a plan to act, call 911, go to the ER, or contact 988. If the concern is serious but not immediate, contact your child’s doctor, therapist, school counselor, or local crisis service today.
You can say, “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” or “Have you been thinking about suicide?” Asking directly does not put the idea in their head and can open the door to honesty.
Let your child know your goal is to keep them safe and supported. Try: “I’m really glad you told me. I’m here with you, and we’re going to get help together.”
One talk is rarely enough. Check in often, share concerns with trusted professionals, and create a plan for who your child can go to when feelings intensify.
Take it seriously every time. Stay with your child, speak calmly, ask if they are thinking about suicide or have a plan, and remove access to anything they could use to hurt themselves. If there is immediate danger, call 911, go to the ER, or call/text 988.
Urgency is higher if your teen has a plan, access to means, recent self-harm, severe agitation, intoxication, or says they may act soon. Even if you are unsure, it is appropriate to seek crisis support right away.
No. Asking directly and calmly about suicidal thoughts does not cause them. It can help your child feel seen and make it easier to understand how much danger they are in.
Follow-up support may include a pediatrician, therapist, psychiatrist, school counselor, crisis program, or safety planning with a mental health professional. Parents also need guidance on supervision, home safety, and ongoing check-ins.
Answer a few questions to better understand the level of concern, what warning signs may matter most, and how to support your child or teen right now.
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